Home Schooled Candidates

Home schooled students make up a small but increasing number of applicants for admission to the United States Naval Academy. There are no additional requirements for home scholars, but in light of the fact that it is sometimes more challenging to review non-traditional records, we offer the following guidelines to assist in preparing and competing for an appointment.

Academics:

To be competitive for an Academy appointment, we recommend the home school curriculum include the following courses:

Mathematics:

Four years of math courses, including a strong foundation in geometry, algebra, and trigonometry. Experience in pre-calculus or calculus is also very valuable, if it does not interfere with the aforementioned courses.

Science:

One year of chemistry, with lab if possible.

English:

Four years of course work with special attention to the study and practice of effective writing. Surveys of English and American literature are especially helpful as background for future study of literature.

To further enhance your competitiveness for admission, the following courses are also recommended:

Foreign Language:

At least two years. Course work should include regular use of the spoken language and encompass elementary syntax and grammar.

Physics:

One year, with lab if possible.

History:

One full year of U.S. history and, where possible, a full year of European or world history.

IT:

Introductory computer and keyboarding courses are recommended because all midshipmen are required to use personal computers in most courses.

Be sure to let us know if your school is recognized by your local school board or the State Board of Education. Homeschooled students must provide a transcript and, as a minimum, the transcript must include the following academic information:

Course/Class title

Length of course and date completed

Grade and Grading scale

Cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA)

Curriculum/Course description

Text/materials used

Although many homeschoolers are able to qualify academically for admission, many find their overall records relatively weak in the area of extracurricular activities. This is the portion of the application process we use to predict leadership potential. Some states and local districts allow home schooled students to participate with traditional high school activities. Remember that it is better to provide documentation of activities that may be undertaken independently. Following are some suggestions that may be helpful:

Athletic Activities

Track/Cross Country: run 5K, 10K races

Basketball: YMCA, AAU, Boys/Girls clubs

Soccer: Compete in community/club organized matches

Lacrosse: Compete in community/club organized matches

Swimming, Tennis, Rowing, Gymnastics: Join a local club and participate in competitions

Baseball: Play in summer league affiliated with Babe Ruth, Little League, American Legion

Non-Athletic Activities

Participate in leadership of church youth group

Junior Achievement

Boys Scouts/Girl Scouts

Boys State/Girls State

Music: Participate in local band, orchestra, or theatrical productions.